Flooded and Frustrated: Texans Face Long Recovery with Limited Insurance

In Central Texas, floodwaters have receded—but for many families, the difficult part is just beginning.

Communities like Burnet, Williamson, and Travis counties have seen homes gutted, vehicles swept away, and belongings destroyed. But beyond the physical cleanup, survivors are now navigating an overwhelming maze of insurance policies, federal assistance, and paperwork.

In the Big Sandy Creek area, crews are still assessing the damage to determine if it meets the federal threshold for disaster assistance. So far, Burnet, Williamson, and Travis counties have qualified for FEMA's Individual Assistance Program, which provides direct assistance to residents. However, only Burnet County has been approved for public assistance, which funds emergency repairs and cleanup for local governments.

Travis County is still waiting. Because it has a larger population, it needs to show a much higher level of damage—millions of dollars—before it qualifies for public assistance. “Smaller counties only need $500,000 to $600,000 in damage,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “Larger counties like Travis take more time to document.”

For several people, their dismay goes beyond the destruction—it’s realizing that their homeowner’s policy failed to include coverage for flooding.

“Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage,” stated Mistie Hinote from the Texas Department of Insurance. “This must be acquired independently, either via an insurance provider or the National Flood Insurance Program.”

Hinote urges those lacking flood insurance to seek FEMA assistance but cautions that a denial letter from their insurance provider is required first to demonstrate that the damages are not covered.

To help residents get support, Disaster Recovery Centers are opening in affected areas:

• Williamson County: Now open through Aug. 10 at EMS North Campus, 3189 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown
  
  
• Burnet County: Opens July 20 at Burnet Community Center, 401 E. Jackson St., 8 a.m.–7 p.m. daily

In Windy Valley, Harold Sherwood’s home was submerged in six feet of water. What’s left is surrounded by twisted debris, and a car slammed against the wall, held in place only by steel beams.

“I have to wait 30 days for the insurance company,” Sherwood said. “Hopefully, I’ll get something out of it. I don’t know how much more I’ve got in life, but I’d like to get on with it.”

He has about $70,000 in outside coverage and a few thousand more for content and his shop. But he says if insurance won’t tear the house down, he will.

Get help and support. Texans impacted by the flood can take the following steps:

• Insurance helpline: Call 800-252-3439 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays)
  
  
• Report damage: Use the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) online or call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362
  
  
• Take photos. Please ensure that you document all details and retain your receipts.
  
  
• Apply for FEMA aid if you're in a declared disaster area and lack sufficient insurance coverage.
  FEMA staff will be available to help with housing, repairs, personal property loss, and other urgent needs.

As state officials continue to assess the damage and request additional federal support, families face an uncertain and emotionally challenging road ahead. But every form, every photo, and every application brings them one step closer to rebuilding their lives.